Historical And Descriptive Review of Illinois

TRENTON

Excerpt for Clinton County, Illinois

This thriving little city is the
principal business point in the western township of Sugar Creek, on the
western border of Clinton County. It is distant thirty-one miles from
the city of St. Louis on the line of the B. & O. S. W. R. R. It
has a population of 1500 souls, mostly German and of German descent.
Its schools and churches and various other institutions are well
sustained, and are indicative of high intellectual development and a
fair degree of refinement. The business men of Trenton are noted for
their activity and enterprise.

Trenton City Hall

Trenton Public School

The foundation of Trenton dates
back to 1836, when A. W. Casad laid out a town by that name. It was
situated north of the state road and is known at the present day as Old
Trenton. The resident portion of the present town is built on that old
town site. The lots were sold in those early days, but the purchasers
never built upon them or even paid for them, and this old town was
abandoned. The present town was laid out May 14th, 1855, by Alva Lewis.
William Lewis laid out an addition March 12th, 1856. Joseph Hanke's
addition was laid out May 22nd of the same year. Sanger Ramp &
Co. laid out an addition June 12th of the same year. Wm. Lewis’ second
addition was laid out June 11th 1860. Joseph Hanke's second addition
was laid out July 2nd, 1866. Mathias Leonard and others laid out an
addition May 26th, 1868. Thus the town assumed its present proportions
and grew in wealth and commercial importance through the enterprise of
the early settlers, and those who joined them subsequently.

The fertility of the soil
adjacent to Trenton is inexhaustible, and produces tile finest crops in
the state. The farms are models of agricultural art and as a result the
commercial interests of Trenton are enhanced. The vast coal deposits
that underlie this fertile region also play an important part in the
promotion of Trenton's commercial development. Coal mining was
inaugurated in a systematic way in 1865 and a mine was in full
operation in 1868. The proprietors were, Joseph Hanke, Wm. Schaeffer
and John Buchter. Subsequently Mr. Hanke bought out his partners and
operated the mine alone, and added largely to his mining facilities by
sinking another shaft and otherwise increasing the out put capacity at
an enormous cost. His interests were finally disposed of to the
Consolidated Coal Company with headquarters in the city of St. Louis.
This company has since opened up a new mine east of Trenton on the line
of the B. & O. S. W. R. R., which is producing paying
quantities of the finest coal on the market. The company employ from
300 to 500 men, most of whom are residents of Trenton, and as a class
are above the average in education and intelligence.

A magnificent public school
building graces the north side of the city. This is conducted in strict
compliance with the admirable school laws of the State of Illinois, and
is a powerful factor in shaping the character of the people.

There are four churches,
representing the Methodist, Presbyterian, German Evangelical and
Catholic denominations. These have all comfortable church edifices,
large congregations and a healthy exchequer.

Among the secret and social
organizations in good standing we number the following and their places
of meeting also noted: A. F. and A. M. Trenton Lodge, No. 109, meets
first and third Friday of the month, at Rieman's hall. I. O. O. F.,
Clinton Lodge, No. 555, meets every Tuesday evening, at Rieman's hall.
K. of H. Aetna Lodge, No. 1530, meets the first and third Monday of the
month at Rieman's Hall. A. O. G. F. Shiller Lodge, No. 1, meets the
second and last Wednesday in the month at Rieman's hall. A. O. U. W.
Trenton Lodge, No. 153, meets the second and fourth Thursdays of the
month at Rieman's hall. G. A. R: Randall Post, No. 568; meets the
Saturday on or before full moon at Rieman's hall. C. K of A. St.
George's Branch, No 50, meets first Sunday at Trenton Catholic school
house, and third Sunday at Aviston Catholic school house. C. K of Ill.,
St. John Baptist Branch No. 8, meets the fourth Sunday of the month at
the Catholic school house. U. O. T. B., Trenton Lodge, No. 69, meets
the first and third Wednesday of the month at Louden's hall. M. W. A.,
Coral Camp, No. 1227, meets the second Monday of the month at Rieman's
hall. The Trenton Turnverein have a substantial modern brick building
in which the society meets for exercise and entertainments.

A fine grist mill, owned by Mr.
Joseph Hanke is located near the railroad station, also extensive tile
works near the old coal mines formerly operated by Mr. Hanke are not at
present in active operation. There are many other industries which are
mentioned elsewhere in connection with the parties owning and managing
them.

The streets of the city are
broad and run at right angles, well paved and shaded with stately trees
on either side. Many fine residences are seen on every hand, and an air
of comfort and content prevails everywhere, suggestive evidence of a
happy and prosperous people.

Trenton was chartered as a
village February 16, 1865, and incorporated as a city September 20,
1887. Its political divisions comprise three wards, from each of which
two aldermen are elected. The municipal officers comprise the Mayor,
city clerk, city attorney, treasurer, police magistrate, city marshall
and superintendent of streets, all elective officers.

TRENTON ELEVATOR CO., North-west
B. & O. Railroad Depot. - There is no industry of more
importance to the grain producing regions and the milling interests
than that of the grain elevator. The Trenton Elevator was formerly
owned by Mr. Park McDonald, and was purchased by Messrs. Z. T. Remick
and J. C. Eisenmayer, November 1889. These latter materially improved
the elevator which has a capacity of 10000 bushels of grain daily. They
are also dealers in all kinds of grain, flour, feed, etc. The practical
ability of the gentlemen of this house is a sufficient guarantee to
invite the attention of millers and grain dealers who desire to
transact business with them through correspondence or in person. Mr. Z.
T. Remick was born and raised in the vicinity of Trenton and is closely
identified with the farmers. He is a police magistrate and active
member of the School Board. His commercial and social standing are of
the highest order both at home and abroad. Mr. J. C. Eisenmayer has
been a resident of Trenton twenty-five years. He hails from Mascoutah,
a son of Mr. A. J. Eisenmayer the noted miller of this section, now
retired from active business. He is the managing proprietor of the
Trenton Bank.

L. M. KOENTZ, Manufacturer of
and Dealer in Stoves and Tin, Copper and Sheet-Iron Ware. Among those
who have established a wide reputation for skill and ability in the
management of their business, special mention is due to Mr. Koentz who
inaugurated his enterprise in 1884. He is a native of Belleville Ill.,
but has been a resident of Trenton since 1859. By trade he is a copper
and tin smith and makes a leading specialty of guttering, spouting and
roofing. He also carries a large stock of hardware, tinware, stoves and
household necessities in queensware, crockery, lamps, etc. Mr Koentz is
connected with the firm of Koentz & Schaeffer, dealers in pumps
and pump supplies. The premises occupied comprise two buildings having
a frontage of fifty feet on Broadway and supplied with a complete
equipment. Competent help is employed, Mr. Koentz giving his personal
attention to all work turned out. Mr. Koentz has been president of the
Turnverein six years and he is a member of the Illinois Fireman’s
Association. He is the Venerable Council, Modern Woodmen of America and
the O. U. T. B. In the latter organization has held office, five years.
He is an active member of the Board of Education and has been chief of
the local Fire Department eight years and its secretary six years.
These executive positions fully attest Mr. Koentz' ability and
usefulness in public life as well as his eminent fitness in the conduct
of business affairs.

RIEMANN, KUHN & CO.,
Lumber Merchants, Contractors and Builders, North of B. O. & S.
W. Railroad Station. The substantial growth of the city of Trenton
within the past decade has developed the lumber industry in a marked
degree. In this connection we make reference to the reliable firm of
Riemann, Kuhn and Co., who established business here in 1889. Their
yards and sheds cover an area 140x200 feet the whole completely
equipped and amply stocked with lumber, dressed and in the rough, also
manufactured lumber of every description for building purposes in hard
and soft woods. They are also contractors and builders, make plans and
specifications and estimate on building. They carry from $4000 to $5000
worth of stock constantly and possess superior facilities for the
execution of work. Mr. L. C. Riemann the senior of the firm was born
and raised in Trenton and was trained under his father's guidance in
the building industry. He is president of the School Board and
assistant chief of the Volunteer Fire Department of Trenton. His
associate, Mr. Jacob Kuhn Jr. is also a native of this city. This firm
was awarded the contract for M. Ginzel's residence, John Benton's
residence and others of like importance. This firm is held in high
favor in this section of the state and their success is due to care and
skill in the conduct of their business and moderate charges,
supplemented by honorable methods in their relations with patrons.

BROADWAY STORE, F. Leonhard
Proprietor. Dealer in Dry-good, Groceries, Hats, Caps, Boots, Shoes,
Hardware and Guns. Corner of Broadway and Apple Street. - Prominent
among the leading concerns in Trenton is the well known house of Mr. F.
Leonhard. This house was originally founded by Peter Emig some thirty
years ago but came into the possession or Mr. Leonhard ten years later
and has been since conducted by him with that degree of care and
business probity that bespeaks the successful and experienced merchant.
The premises consist of a substantial two story brick building having a
double frontage of fifty feet on Broadway and ninety feet on Apple
street with separate entrances on each street. Mr. Leonhard employs
five intelligent assistants giving his personal attention to all
important details, so as to insure the highest satisfaction to his
patrons. Mr. Leonhard has been a resident of the city forty years,
coming here from his native place, Highland Ill., at the age of eleven
years. He formerly ran a hotel and wine room, and for a period of two
years was engaged in farming. He has been a member of the School Board
and also served in the Town Board. He is a public spirited citizen and
is exceedingly popular in the Community. He is the owner of
three fine farms containing 430 acres in the vicinity of Trenton to
which he devotes much of his time and attention.

BROCKHAN & GREER,
Clothing, Hats, Caps, Boots, Shoes, Rubber Goods and Gents' Furnishing
Goods, Cor. Main and Broadway. - This enterprising house was
established seven years ago by Mr. A. A. Brockhan who conducted it as a
boot and shoe store until about one year ago he added to the business,
clothing, hats and caps, rubber goods and gents' furnishings, and at
the same time Mr. J. W. Greer was admitted to co-partnership. The lines
of goods carried are purchased from first hands and comprise the best
selections in all lines and for everybody. Mr. Brockhan is a
practically experienced boot and shoe manufacturer who acquired his
knowledge of the industry in Europe. He is a German by birth and
education and is very thorough and reliable in his line. He landed on
these shores in 1875. After spending some time in St. Louis, he
undertook the occupation of farming. Then spent five years in Lebanon,
Ill., before coming to this city. He is an alderman and president of
the Trenton Volunteer Fire Department. Also a director of the Trenton
Building and Loan Association, a very flourishing local enterprise. Mr.
Greer was born and raised in Trenton and was formerly connected with
the firm of Brooks Bros., St. Louis, where he remained one year and was
subsequently employed by Schnyder & Hartley two years. The firm
own the premises occupied for business and residence purposes. It is a
substantial two story brick 50x85 feet in area located in the business
center of the city on Main street and Broadway. This is one of the most
progressive and reliable firms doing business in Trenton and their
success is well deserved.

M. GINZEL, Dealer in General
Merchandise. There is no finer example of close application and upright
business methods than that achieved by Mr. M. Ginzel whose business has
increased one hundred fold since its establishment in 1870. The store
is located on the N. W. corner Main street and Broadway. A warehouse
annex is utilized for storage of reserve stock and flour. At the out
set of his career he did business in a very modest way, but in 1880 he
materially increased his facilities, particularly in the dry goods
department when the Broadway wing was added to the main street
building, the entire structure now forming a double frontage of 50 feet
on Main street and 75 feet on Broadway, combining a floor space of
about 5,000 square feet. A perfect system prevails in the departments
which are entirely separate from each other except through an open arch
way. Employment is given to six assistants and a delivery wagon. The
trade of this house extends to the surrounding farming districts and
has steadily increased in volume from year to year. Mr. Ginzel is
possessor of considerable property, farming lands, city residential and
business. He has been city treasurer and is now a leading member of the
School Board. He is a Mason and an Odd Fellow. An influential citizen
and enterprising business man. This house is known by the designation
of "The Star Store" and in name as well as in fact it is a star of the
first magnitude.

TRENTON BANK, J. C. Eisenmayer
& Co., Broadway West of Main Street. The well balanced and
conservative management of her banks has been a most important factor
in the prosperity and stability of Illinois. The Trenton Bank is an
example in point. It was opened January 1st, 1890, by J. C. Eisenmayer.
The bank utilizes every modern system which tends in any way to benefit
financial operations. It receives upon favorable terms the accounts of
corporations and individuals, and makes collections through perfectly
organized system of correspondence and sells European Exchange. A
capital of $15,000.00 is held in reserve for the protection of
depositors, with a surplus of $5,000.00. Mr. J. C. Eisenmayer is a
native of Mascoutah. He came to Trenton with his parents at the age of
fifteen and has remained here ever since with the

exception of the years
attending school at Mascoutah and the McKendree College. After being
graduated from the latter institution 1871, he returned home and
engaged with his father in milling until 1886, when their mill was
destroyed by fire. He then turned his attention to buying and selling
grain four years with great success. Mr. Eisenmayer owns 300 acres of
farming land in the vicinity of Trenton and in Madison County which he
rents, and from which a handsome income is derived. His natural
adaptability to business and unquestioned ability in commercial affairs
eminently fit him in the successful conduct of any legitimate field of
industrial or commercial enterprise. Mr. Eisenmayer is at
present township treasurer, and is an ex-alderman and an ex-Mayor of
Trenton.

LOUIS
BLATTNER, Watchmaker and Jeweler. - This enterprise had
its inception in 1881, under favorable auspices, as the town at that
time did not contain an industry of this class. Mr. Blattner's
practical experience supplemented by commendable business foresight
induced him to embark in this enterprise, which has proved a decided
success. Prior to engaging in the business, Mr. Blattner had been
trained from early youth in this important art industry under his
father's guidance. The latter being a watchmaker of Highland Ill.,
where the son was born and raised. Mr. Louis Blattner arriving at an
age when discrimination decides the future of man's occupation in life,
he engaged in mercantile pursuits for a period of about five years.
This departure had the salutary effect of fitting him in the conduct of
business on his own account. Mr. Blattner's store is a model of
neatness and handsomely fitted with nickel and plate glass show cases.
An exceedingly fine assortment is at all times kept on hand, embracing
gold and silver watches of all the leading makes, diamonds and other
precious stones, clocks and unique designs, jewelry of every
description in novel styles. Eye glasses, spectacles and optical goods
generally, while special care and attention is given to the repairing
of watches, clocks, and jewelry and. satisfaction guaranteed.
Notwithstanding Mr. Blattner's active business life he has found time
to devote his attention to public affairs. He holds the comission of
Notary Public and is deputy County Surveyor and has been Township Clerk
for some years; a member of the Masonic order, Knights of Honor,
Ancient Order of United Workmen and the Modern Woodmen of America,
orders in all of which he holds responsible positions, attesting his
executive ability and popularity. He is essentially a self
made man, a successful merchant and a public spirited citizen.

A.
W. CARTER, M. D., Residence East Broadway. - The subject of our
sketch, Dr. A. W. Carter, is a young physician of more than ordinary
ability. He is a graduate of the Cincinnati Medical College. He
received his preliminary education at the public schools of his native
place Roseville Ohio, and subsequently took the scientific course of
study at the Fultonham Academy, Ohio. He commenced the practice of
medicine in his native state in 1892. The following year he came to
Trenton to establish an office, and has since made a record for
efficiency in the practice of the profession second to none in this
section of the state. Dr. Carter has acquired an enviable

reputation as a skillful
surgeon and has made the diagnosis and
treatment of lung diseases a special study. He is affable in
disposition and at once commands the respect and confidence of his
patients. Dr. Carter received honorable mention from the college
faculty, and the highest praise from Professor Louis W. Sauer, Ph. G.,
of the Cincinnati College of Medicine for a scientific dissertation on
food adulterations submitted and read before the college faculty. His
high educational attainments and original conceptions in the science of
medicine bespeak for him an eminently successful future.

WILLIAM
SCHAEFFER, Post Master. - The subject of our sketch, Mr.
William Schaeffer, is a native of Basie, Switzerland, the oldest
existing Republic in the modern world. He came to America in 1853;
after spending some time in the east he went to Minnesota where he
remained four years and came to Trenton in 1859. Since his arrival here
he has been engaged in various enterprises, and is now connected with
the Union hotel of this city. In public life he has also occupied
positions of trust and is now town collector and post master of
Trenton, appointed to the latter position June 1893 and succeeding Mr.
Benjamin Louden. He has been Justice of the Peace and Sheriff of
Clinton County, all of which public trusts he has discharged with great
credit to himself and to the entire satisfaction of the people. He is
conscientious and painstaking in the discharge of his official duties.
He is an active member of the Masonic order, the Odd Fellows, the Good
Fellows and the United Workmen. He is also a leading exponent of
athletics through his connection with the Trenton Turnverein. Mr.
Schaeffer has always been closely identified with the progress of
Trenton. His systematic conduct of the local post office has been the
subject of favorable comment among the people ever since his
incumbency. The ease with which he adopts himself to the discharge of
public duty seems to be quite natural. During the war of the rebellion
he served in the 22nd Illinois Volunteer Infantry as Regimental Band
Leader, and was honorably discharged from the service.

SCHNYDER
& HARTLEY, Dry Goods, Clothing, Boots and Shoes,
Groceries, etc., Broadway. - It is gratifying to note among the younger
circle of business men in Trenton, a tendency to improve in a marked
degree upon the business methods in vogue ten years ago. As a
consequence the purchaser does not have to depend entirely upon his own
judgment, but can rely upon the experience and truthful representations
of the merchant. In this connection we take pleasure in making mention
of the enterprising firm Schnyder & Hartley who five years ago
purchased the business from Mr. C. J. Steinmetz who had been in
business for twenty years before. The premises occupied are eligibly
located on the north side of Broadway in the business center of the
city. In dimensions the store is 20x60 feet completely stocked with
carefully selected lines of dry goods, notions, clothing, boots and
shoes, furnishing goods, etc. A grocery department is also maintained.
The gentlemen of the firm Chas. Schnyder and George L. Hartley are
practically experienced merchants, familiar with the requirements and
demands of the consumer. Mr. Schnyder is a native of
Switzerland. He came to America in 1870 and has been clerk in some of
the leading business houses of Trenton. He has been Township Clerk and
is an active member of the C. K. of A. and the C. K. of I. Mr. Hartley
was born and raised in the vicinity of Trenton, he has also been
employed as clerk, and for a considerable time was connected with a
department management in the house of Wm. Deering & Co. in St.
Louis. He is now City Treasurer of Trenton, and an active member of the
Western Commercial Travelers' Association. They are young men of worth
and ability and very popular among all classes of the community.

JACOB
GLEICH, Blacksmith and Dealer in Pumps, Planters, Etc. FRED
THALGOTT, Wagon Maker, Cor. Main & Broadway. The blacksmith's
is an occupation which had its origin with the discovery of the uses to
which mankind devoted metal, and he has since ever played an important
part in the economy of every day life. We note with pleasure a
representative of that craft in Trenton that deserves more than passing
notice, in the person of Mr. Jacob Gleich who established business here
January 1st. 1883. Mr. Gleich is an expert smith, and whether it be the
horse shoe, the wheel tyre or any device or design in which iron or
steel is used, he is the man to execute the work. Mr. Gleich was born
and raised on a farm in the vicinity of Trenton, in what is known as
the “Cracker Neck” school district. He learnt his trade at St. Morgans,
Madison County Ill., with Mr. Hanselman the village blacksmith. He owns
the premises he occupies for business and residence. Adjoining Mr.
Gleich's shop and working in co-operation with him in the wagon making
establishment is Mr. Fred Thalgott who has been in the business here
since 1867. Mr. Thalgott bears the reputation of being one of the best
wagon makers in this part of the state. He is an Alsatian by birth,
came to this country in 1860 and learned the trade in St. Louis. In
repairing and repainting Mr. Thalgott is equally proficient and
painstaking. He is a member of the order of Good Fellows. His neighbor
Mr. Gleich, the blacksmith also deals in pumps, planters and some other
special devices and implements used by farmers. Both gentlemen are
popular with their patrons and public spirited citizens.

JOSEPH
HANKE, General Merchandise, Broadway. - The City of Trenton, by
reason of its location in the heart of rich agricultural and coal
mining regions, has attracted many useful and necessary commercial
enterprises. Mr. Joseph Hanke keeps a general store on Broadway in the
basement of which are fine wine vaults, stocked from Mr. Hanke's
vineyard, an enterprise in which he takes great pride in maintaining at
a high standard, and to which he gives his personal attention. He is
also the owner of a gristmill, poultry yard, incubating plant and the
works. Another of his conceptions is a magnificent artificial lake five
acres in area which is known as Prairie Lake and is designed both for
pleasure and profit. Mr. Hanke's many public and private enterprises
have obtained for him a wide reputation and lasting popularity. He was
instrumental in the development of coal mining in the vicinity for a
considerable period. Mr. Hanke was a member of the board of Trustees of
the town and the postmaster during Lincoln’s administration from 1861
to 1865. In 1874 he was elected supervision of Sugar Creek Township and
has held that position through re-election ever since. In recognition
of his high executive ability he was made chairman of the financial
committee, and has invariably been identified with the financial system
of Clinton County, with results that were always eminently satisfactory
to the public. He is at present Mayor of the city. He was born in
Bohemia, and at the age of fourteen years he was apprenticed as a clerk
and accumulated enough to engage in business on his own account.
Possessed of the spirit of adventure, he set sail for America and after
remaining in the east some time came to St. Louis in 1850 and shortly
afterwards to Clinton County near the present site of Trenton in 1854.
In September, 1877, he was married to Elisabeth Kuepferie and is the
father of six children - five boys and one girl, the oldest being
sixteen and the youngest five years old.

BOHRMANN
& WOLF, Dealers in Hardware, Stoves & Tinware.
Repairing and Roofing a Specialty, Main Street, Near Broadway South. -
One of the progressive houses in Trenton is that of Messrs. Bohrmann
and Wolf which was established four years ago by Mr. H. J. Bohrmann of
Louisville, Ky. Mr. J. Wolf of Mascoutah, Ill., became a
partner December 1893, Mr. Bohrmann learnt the trade of tin-smith in
Louisville and for several years followed tinsmithing in Trenton prior
to engaging in the business on his own account. He is an adept in the
craft and is painstaking and reliable in the execution of work. Mr.
Wolf is a miller by trade, a business man of wide experience. The house
has built up an enviable reputation for energy and fair dealing. This
fact coupled with careful management has secured for them a well
deserved success, with the encouraging prospects of a wider field of
usefulness. The premises occupied for business and residence are owned
by Mr. Bohrman, consisting of a substantial two story brick building
40x90 feet in area; the first floor comprising store and shop. The
latter is completely equipped for the work, and the members of the firm
give their personal attention to every detail of the business so as to
insure the highest satisfaction to their patrons.

FERDINAND
KURZ, Manufacturer and Dealer in Carriages and Buggies, Main
Street. - Since 1867 Mr. Kurz has plied his avocation of carriage maker
here and in it he is recognized on all hands as an adept and practical
mechanic, who through a rigid apprenticeship gained his knowledge of
the trade in his native country of Germany. He came to America in 1852.
After remaining in Chicago three years, he went to Vandalia III, where
he stayed eight months, then went to St. Louis where he remained
thirteen years at his trade, finally locating in Trenton and starting
on his own account. His establishment is equipped with woodworking,
blacksmithing, painting and finishing departments, carriage building
being the specialty; repairing and repainting. Mr. Kurz owns the
property occupied for business and residence, comprising an area
110x110 feet. He also handles vehicles of standard manufacture and
agricultural implements. Mr. Kurz is an active member of the I. O. O.
F. the K. of H. and the G. A. R.

THE
TRENTON SUN. - Modern journalism has its conspicuous representative
in Trenton in the person of Mr. Arthur Oehler, the editor and
proprietor of the "Sun." The "Sun" is the combination of two
newspapers, the Gazette, which appeared in 1881, and which changed
hands in February, 1893. The Presbyterian and Herald had their
inception in November 1892 and in April, 1893 they were absorbed by the
Gazette. These in turn were purchased by Mr. Oehler in June of the same
year and on July 1st was issued under the appropriate name of "Trenton
Sun," thus casting its radiance upon the preceeding confusion and
night-like conditions that had existed in Trenton. Mr. Oehler, since he
has had control has brought order out of chaos through systematic
methods in the conduct of his paper. A perfect system of
classification, editorial points of special interest, suggestive
paragraphing, reliable current local news items, original artistic and
attractive advertising, and general entertaining and instructive
information, are a few of the leading features of this young giant in
journalism. He has a numerous retinue of exchanges and correspondents,
in Clinton and adjoining counties, and the people of Trenton may be
congratulated upon the possession of such a live newspaper in their
midst. Mr. Oehler was born December 18th, 1854 at Highland, Ill., where
he graduated from the public school. He was in a store for a while and
after a course at college, began teaching in a country school, not far
from

the Clinton county line.
He next started in a subordinate position in
the Highland school, where he remained five years, gradually working
upwards. He was then offered a position at a considerable advance of
salary in the Marine schools, where he remained six years, a part of
the time as principal. He next was principal of the Trenton
schools, where he remained four years, when he was called to a position
in the Belleville schools, where fifty-six teachers are employed, by
the present State Supt. Hy. Raab, and where he remained three years. He
has therefore spent over nineteen years in country and different grades
of town and city schools. He is a great reader and for years has
carried out a course of systematic reading and independent study. He
has one of the best equipped private libraries in the county. He can
converse with almost equal fluency in the English, German and French
languages. The school room becoming too confining, he decided to enter
another occupation. About a year ago he purchased the several Trenton
papers and consolidated them into THE SUN. He has regularly carried on
an Educational Department in every issue of the same, and championed
education whenever opportunity offered. From his ancestors he has
imbibed that love of freedom so characteristic of the inhabitants of
the mountain loving Swiss, while his prayer has ever been to be spared
from bigotry and prejudice, in whatever form it may present itself. He
belongs to the Evangelical Church, and in politics is a liberal
Republican.

THEO.
J. KASPER, City Clerk. - In a review of the commercial and
industrial affairs of a community like Trenton, the rank and file of
its people, as a rule furnish the men who control and direct municipal
government. The subject of our sketch Mr. Theo. J. Kasper is from among
that class. He was born in St. Louis and at the age of eighteen months
came with his parents to Trenton when the place was scarcely more than
a hamlet. Mr. Kasper has been a resident of this

city twenty years, was
educated at the public schools and with a view
to bettering its condition embarked in business on his own account. He
conducts a model tonsorial parlor, and in conjunction therewith carries
on a mercantile business. He has been city clerk six years. Mr. Kasper
is agent for the New Crown Sewing Machine which has the latest
improvements. Mr. Kasper is a public spirited citizen and
progressive man.

WALTER
S. LOUDEN. - A talented young lawyer of this city forms the
immediate subject of this sketch. He was born in Looking-Glass
Township, Clinton County, July 31, 1868, and is one of three children
comprising the family of Benjamin and Chanty (Blake), Louden. His
paternal grandfather, Robert Louden, was one of the prominent residents
of this county, (Clinton); a warm advocate of the free school system he
aided greatly in raising the standard of education in Clinton
County. The father of our subject was born in Looking Glass
Township and is still a resident of this County. An ardent republican
in politics, he has long been one of the leaders of that party in this
section, and for many years was Postmaster at Trenton. He owns and
manages several large farms, besides being an extensive dealer in
agricultural implements. Walter S. Louden lived in his native township
until reaching his fifth year, when his parents removed to this city.
Here he attended the public schools, and later entered Johnson's
Commercial College at St Louis and then became a student in the
McKendree Law School. This line of study was continued in the office of
Judge H. H. Horner of Lebanon for one year. He then went to St. Louis
and was graduated from the Law School of that city. Admitted to the Bar
November 21, 1890, Mr. Louden has since been actively engaged in the
practice of his profession throughout Clinton and surrounding counties
and has already established an enviable reputation. He is a very
eloquent and convincing speaker, and possesses ability and
argumentative powers rarely found in one so young. In 1892 he was
nominated by the Republican party for State's Attorney in his county
and notwithstanding Cleveland's majority of over eleven hundred, our
subject was defeated by two hundred and seventy-five votes only. He now
holds the position of Attorney for the City of Trenton. On September
12, 1893, Mr. Louden married Miss Mollie, daughter of Henry and
Caroline (Abernatha) Manverse. His father-in-law, Mr. Henry Manverse,
formerly editor of the Trenton "Gazette", is now engaged as special
agent of the Prudential Insurance Co., of Newark, NJ.

TRENTON
BREWERY. - One from out among the industrial establishments of
this little city, which has been quietly, yet uninterruptedly pursuing
its course for a period of over thirty years, is the Trenton Brewery,
it was begun 1860 by Berthold and Kiesel. The younger partner, Henry
Kiesel, was the leading spirit and he it was who in accordance with the
best known process of that time, insisted upon the building of two of
the three capacious, vaulted, underground cellars, which have all this
while and are still doing such good service. Mr. Berthold's interest
was bought by A. Stamm, who in turn sold to Mr. Matzenbach. In 1866
Kiesel and Matzenbach sold out to Bassler and Kutterer, who carried on
the business for three years, when Mr. Paul Bassler became sole owner.
Two artesian wells were sunk 250 feet, which furnish a copious flow of
soft sweet water. About three years ago a new engine and the renowned
Ring Refrigerator system was put in. A description of the principles of
the process of this system, which would apply equally well to almost
any other system of refrigerator is hereby appended.

THE
COMPRESSION SYSTEM

The
three stages of operation are as follows: I. Compression of the
gas; II. Condensation of the gas, and a withdrawal of the heat caused
by compression; III Expansion of the gas and absorption by it of the
heat from the surrounding objects. About a year ago a large ice house,
holding over one-thousand tons, was put up. The concern gives steady
employment for about ten men. Paul Bassler is the business manager,
Aug. Bassler is superintendent and Jacob Bassler is engineer and
machinist. East of the plant is the residence of the proprietor and
adjoining the same, a lovely, shaded park of about twenty acres, where
picnics and entertainments are held during the summer. While no effort
has been made to cover a large territory, "Basslers Best" ° finds a
ready sale in the neighboring towns of Aviston, Damiansville, New Baden
and at home.

FRED. FRICKER.
Confectioner. - The business of the
confectioner and caterer is one requiring peculiar tact, and
intelligence more than the ordinary, to meet the requirements and taste
of a fastidious community like that of Trenton. The most prominent
representative of this business in Trenton is Mr. Fred. Fricker, who
started some fifteen years ago on Broadway and subsequently removed to
Main Street, but finally returned to Broadway. The premises are now
midway between Main street and the Post Office, in all respects a
desirable locality. Mr. Fricker's store and parlor are stocked with
fine selections of tropical fruits and fresh confections in great
variety, notions and toys, and fresh baked bread, as well as the
dispensing of delicious ice cream, oysters and refreshing drinks during
the proper seasons. Mr. Fricker is a Swiss but has been in America
since childhood. He furnishes for weddings and parties and is prompt
and reasonable in his charges. His good lady assists in the management
and the house has become a very popular one.

JOSEPH GLANZNER. Furniture,
Undertaking and Embalming, Cor. Main and
Third Streets . - A review of the representative houses of Trenton
would hardly be complete without mention of Joseph Glanzner. The
enterprise was founded thirty years ago and through care in the
management and the exercise of honorable business methods Mr. Glanzner
has achieved well deserved success. He owns the premises occupied for
business and residence comprising a two story brick building 50x42 feet
in area. A cabinet maker's shop constitutes an annex, Mr. Glanzner
being an expert in the craft of cabinet maker. He also undertakes
funerals and carries in stock coffins, caskets and burial supplies. A
beautiful hearse is also available. He does embalming after the most
approved modern methods. He is a German by birth and came to America
eleven years of age. He has been village treasurer seven years and two
years city custodian of the treasury, the first who held this position.
He is an active Mason and an Odd Fellow. A member of the K. of H. and
the Turnverein.

H. E. MOLLMANN. Manufacturer and
Dealer in Harness, Bridles, Collars,
Whips, etc., Cor. Main and Third Streets. -- Trenton's commanding
position in the heart of a rich agricultural and coal mining region has
attracted to itself many important and useful industrial enterprises.
In this connection it is with pleasure we make note of a comparatively
recent accession to her industrial thrift in the person of Mr. H. E.
Mollmann, who established here October 17th, 1893. This gentleman was
born and raised at Mascoutah, Ill., where his father has been and still
is carrying on the business of harness making. Our subject learned the
trade in his father's shop and his training has been such as to warrant
the statement that he is an expert practical harness maker in all its
branches. Mr. Mollmann's trade is rapidly gaining in popularity for
excellent work and reliability. He employs two workmen and gives his
personal attention to every detail, allowing nothing to pass from his
shop without a critical inspection. Mr. Mollmann is a young artisan, a
married man and has an interesting family of boys and girls. He belongs
to the Masonic order and the K. of H. He is popular in both business
and social circles.

J. A. EICHER, Dealer in
Groceries, Dry Goods, Notions, Sporting Goods,
Glass and Queensware, etc. - Among the recent accessions to Trenton is
Mr. J. A. Eicher who established business May 1st, 1894, at a time when
the labor agitations were being inaugurated and which have since caused
an unprecedented business depression. Mr. Eicher is from the
neighboring town of Summerfield, where he was born and raised. For some
years he clerked in the stores of his native place and came to Trenton
in the fall of 1888 and for five years filled the position of clerk
finally embarking in business on his own account as noted above. Mr.
Eicher is a young man possessed of much energy and courage. The fact of
his having commenced business when he did and has bravely continued to
invite patronage under the most discouraging circumstances fully
attests his ability to succeed. He carries groceries, dry goods,
notions, sporting goods, glass and queensware, but makes a specialty of
groceries. In the lines of canned goods, table delicacies, fruits and
condiments his stock is very complete and his prices are such as to
meet the sharpest competition. Mr. Eicher's store is large and
commodious, scrupulously clean and the goods in each department
conveniently displayed. He contemplates materially increasing his stock
as the condition of business demands it.

J. H. MIENER, Merchant Tailor
Main and 2nd Streets. - Among the
arbiters of correct taste and leading styles in men's wearing apparel,
Mr. J. H Miener the well known merchant tailor, unquestionably ranks
among the foremost. He has had a long practical experience in the
business and embarked on his own account thirteen years ago. Mr. Miener
is a German by birth, came to America in 1866 and has been a resident
of Trenton twenty-six years. He employs three assistants now but during
the active seasons has engaged as many as six or seven journeymen. His
premises on the corner of Main and Second Streets are his own property
and consist of a modern two story brick building situated on a lot
110x118 feet in area. The store is complete in all its appointments and
a fine display is made of elegant woolens, suitings and trouserings in
the newest designs. Nothing but a perfect fit and nobby style goes out
of his establishment. Mr. Miener is a member of the I. O. O. F., A. O.
U. W., is a public spirited citizen and a correct business man.

MRS. C. A. MITCHELL, Fashionable
Milliner and Dress Maker, Dealer 1n
Notions and Human Hair, Main Street. - This lady inaugurated her
business here twenty-two years ago and has conducted it with
commendable energy and success ever since. About one year ago Mr. Wm.
Pierce introduced for her some special lines which have now become a
fixed accessory of the business. These comprise fancy groceries,
confections, oysters and ice cream in their seasons, fresh bread, coal
oil, gasoline, etc. Mrs. Mitchell is now the sole proprietor of the
business. She owns the property occupied for business and residence.
She is from Waverly, Morgan Co., Ill. She learned her art in
Jacksonville, Ill, and for a period carried on the business at Alton,
Ill. She is an adept milliner and dress maker. Her success and
popularity is due to this fact coupled with her disposition to give
value received and polite relations with customers. She has a host of
friends among all classes of the community.

JACOB KUHN, Dealer in Furniture,
Picture Frames and Mirrors,
Undertaking, Coffins, Caskets, etc., Broadway, East of Main Street. -
Among the pioneer residents of Trenton we note the name of Mr. Jacob
Kuhn, who came here in 1858, and for a number of years followed his
trade, that of a cabinet maker and builder. He established his present
business about twelve years ago, building for himself the store he
occupies, which consists of a neat two story frame 30x50 feet in area.
Mr. Kuhn is a native of Wurtemburg, Germany. He came to America in 1853
and prior to locating here was a resident of Collinsville and Troy,
Ill. He is a member of the Treu-Bund and is an active and progressive
citizen. Mr. Kuhn has several sons who have arrived at manhood's
estate, one of whom is in the lumber and building business in this city
under the firm name of Riemann-Kuhn &Co. Helms another son,
Henry Kuhn, in St. Louis engaged in stair building in Huttig's factory.
The other sons are at home and assist their father in his business.

C. F. W. BARTLING, Livery and
Feed Stables Near R. R. Station. - A well
conducted livery and boarding stable is a great convenience to any
community and in noting that of Mr. C. F. W. Bartling we submit one
which in all its characteristics presents the best results of
intelligent effort in this direction. The stand is an old one, the
location is central and the building is spacious, having a frontage of
fifty feet by a depth of seventy-five feet completely equipped for the
comfort and safety of horses. The stable will accommodate thirty head
of horses, besides carriages and stalls. The boarding department is a
special feature. For livery purposes Mr. Bartling has a number of
stylish out-fits comprising coaches, carriages, buggies, surreys,
phaetons and fine driving horses. Carriages are furnished for funerals
and for weddings, parties, balls and driving at reasonable rates. Mr.
Bartling has been a resident of Trenton two years. He is from Decatur
Ill., and was formerly engaged in the walnut timber business traveling
through many states. His present business occupation is more congenial
to his disposition and his fitness in the care and training of horses
is acquired through a natural liking for the equine species. He is a
member of the I. O. O. F. and in politics inclines to the Peoples
Party.

MRS. EMMA ILBERY, Photographer,
Main Street. - Here in this little city
of Trenton we find a talented representative of the photographic art.
Portrait photography is the specialty of Mrs. Ilbery's studio and in
this she is not excelled. Mrs. Ilbery succeeded her husband in the
business. He died two years ago and about one year after the
establishment of the enterprise here with branches at Breese and St.
Louis, the latter being discontinued on his demise. During Mr. Ilbery's
lifetime his wife was in reality the art genius of the business. She is
a pupil of the famous Cramer Studio of St. Louis and through a long
training, Mrs. Ilbery has mastered the photographic art. She is
assisted by her daughter Miss Lucy Ilbery who also displays fine
artistic taste. Mrs. Ilbery is a native of St. Louis where she was
raised and educated. Her gallery is located on Main Street North of
Broadway.

W. T. CARR, Druggist and
Bookseller. - From the very earliest ages, the
art of preparing compounds that arrest and remove pain, and heal the
sick, has been regarded as among the highest of human functions. W. T.
Carr, a graduate of the St, Louis College of Pharmacy purchased this
business August 1884 and on the 1st of October following opened up with
a very complete stock. The premises are located on Main street North of
Broadway. They are handsomely furnished with plate-glass show-windows,
elegant fixtures etc. The stock embraces pure drugs and medicines,
chemicals and proprietary remedies, toilet articles, perfumery, sick
room requisites, supplemented by a fine line of stationery, school
books, paints, oils and painter's supplies. A sideline is also carried
in standard makes of bicycles and sewing machines. One trusty
assistant, Mr. A. E. Stout, is employed. Mr. Carr was born and raised
in Trenton, receiving his preliminary education at the public school
and subsequently attending two courses at McKendree College. He owns
the store and a comfortable home and has been eminently successful in
his business career. He is young and progressive and his future is full
of promise.

TRENTON HOUSE, John White,
Proprietor. – It will be two years in
November since Mr. White came in control of this old landmark, and
since his incumbency a thorough renovation has taken place, so that it
may be truthfully stated that it is the most comfortable hotel in
Trenton controling a very large patronage. The building is two and one
half story, equipped with every convenience. The table is all that
could be desired and is presided over by the lady of the house assisted
by her interesting young daughter. Ten clean guest rooms, an elegant
parlor, office, reading room and bar constitute a few leading features
of this popular house. The location is in close proximity to the
railroad station, the surroundings include a profusion of fine shade
trees. Mr. John White the genial host was born and raised on the
Gravois road in St. Louis and for a number of years followed coal
mining in the vicinity of this City. He is a member of the School Board
and held the position of alderman of Trenton. He is an active member of
the I. O. O. F.